Cascade de Nyon

Cascade de Nyon is a small, easily reached waterfall in the municipality of Morzine, in the Haute-Savoie department of the French Alps, within the Portes du Soleil hiking and ski area. The falls drop around 10 metres over a rocky step in a wooded setting, making them one of the most accessible short walking destinations near Morzine.

Where is Cascade de Nyon located?

The waterfall lies roughly 2 km south of central Morzine, along the road leading through the Vallée de la Manche towards Avoriaz. It forms on the Dranse de la Manche stream, which runs down the western side of the valley. Right beside the falls stands the base station of the Nyon cable car (téléphérique), next to a spacious car park offering free parking for over 500 vehicles, shared with the Pleney lift station.

How do you get to the waterfall?

The walk to Cascade de Nyon is one of the easiest outings in the Morzine area. The path follows the riverbank through woodland with almost no climbing, which makes it suitable for families with young children and for visitors without hiking experience. This stretch of trail is known as the "Sentier du Renard" (Fox Trail) and features information panels describing foxes and other wildlife found in this part of the Alps.

Starting from central Morzine, at Place de la Poste, the round trip to the waterfall and back takes about an hour in total. Visitors who prefer a shorter outing can drive directly to the car park at the Nyon cable car station, from where the falls are reached in around 15 minutes on foot.

What else is worth knowing before a visit?

The waterfall stands about 10 metres high and looks most dramatic after heavy rainfall, when the volume of falling water increases noticeably. Right next to the falls is Cascade Aventure, an adventure park with rope courses and other activities suited to different age groups, which makes the site a popular family destination during the summer season.

The Dranse de la Manche stream, on which the waterfall sits, is also used for canyoning — a sport that involves descending a river gorge in a wetsuit, using ropes and rappelling techniques. This adds an extra draw for visitors seeking outdoor activity in this part of Haute-Savoie.

Because it lies so close to central Morzine, Cascade de Nyon makes a convenient stop for a short walk during a longer stay in the Portes du Soleil area, whether in summer or outside the ski season, when many higher trails are less accessible.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to walk to Cascade de Nyon?

From central Morzine, the full round trip takes about an hour. Starting from the car park at the Nyon cable car station, the walk to the falls takes around 15 minutes.

Is the trail suitable for children?

Yes, the path is easy, runs along the river with almost no elevation gain, and includes educational panels about local wildlife, making it appealing for families.

Is there parking near the waterfall?

Yes, a spacious free car park is located at the Nyon cable car station, shared with the Pleney station.

When does the waterfall look most impressive?

The falls are at their most powerful after heavy rain, when the water flow increases significantly.

What else can you do near the waterfall?

Cascade Aventure, an adventure park, operates right next to the falls, and the Dranse de la Manche stream is also used for canyoning.